Jacques Majorelle

Sale: EVE, Paris, 21 December 2007, lot 213
Purchased at the above sale by the present owner

Under UV light there are 2 small areas of fluorescence, one in the lower centre and the other to the right of this in the red pigment, but these appear to be the artist's original pigments and not retouching. Apart from some light surface dirt, overall this work is in very good original condition. Held in an elaborate gold-painted wood and plaster frame with floral and foliate ornaments.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Majorelle first set eyes on Morocco in 1917 at the age of thirty-one. Landing at Tangiers, he was immediately captivated by the country's light, atmosphere, topography and people, and would eventually spend the rest of his life there. In 1923 he began work on his villa in Marrakech, built in the Moorish style, and whose landscaped tropical gardens, restored by Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé, are now world famous.

Following in the footsteps of the great Orientalist painters, Majorelle introduced a whole new pictorial language to the genre, founded on the latest artistic currents and notably the work of fellow painter Henri Matisse. Adopting a fresh style and painting in plein air, he took a particular interest in the local people, their costumes, and their traditions. As a leading member of the 'Kasbah' group (the Association des peintres et sculpteurs du Maroc), his lively paintings of Morocco's teeming souks and traditional dances were well received at personal shows and at the Orientalist Salons.